constructivism

noun

UK /kənˈstrʌk.tɪ.vɪ.zəm/

US /kənˈstrʌk.tə.vɪ.zəm/

Constructivism is the idea that people build their own understanding by learning and doing things themselves.

In art class, the teacher used constructivism by letting us build models to figure out how shapes fit together.

SYNONYMS

building-based learning hands-on learning learner-centered approach active learning

RELATED WORDS

constructionism discovery learning scaffolding inquiry-based learning experiential learning

OTHER MEANINGS

2. An art style from early 1900s Russia that uses simple shapes and materials to make art.

The museum showed constructivism posters with bold red circles and black lines.

3. In psychology, the view that the mind creates its own version of reality from experience.

Her research on memory follows constructivism, showing how people fill in gaps when they recall stories.

4. In international relations, the belief that shared ideas and beliefs shape how countries act.

The class discussed constructivism to explain why some nations cooperate more than others.